Bowmore 17 Year Old - 2010s vs Michael Jackson Blend

Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Bowmore 17 Year Old - 2010sMichael Jackson Blend
DistilleryBowmoreBerry Bros. & Rudd
RegionIslay
CountryScotlandEngland
TypeSingle MaltBlended
ABV43%43%
Age17 yrNAS
Price£150£90.36
Rating5.00/5

Bowmore 17 Year Old - 2010s

Smoke68/100
Sweetness0/100
Beginner55/100
Value0/100

Michael Jackson Blend

Smoke0/100
Sweetness64/100
Beginner75/100
Value55/100

Bowmore 17 Year Old - 2010s

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Michael Jackson Blend

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Michael Jackson Blend is rated higher (5.00 vs 0.00).

Michael Jackson Blend is better value at £90 vs £150.

For beginners: Michael Jackson Blend is more approachable (75/100 beginner score).

Bowmore 17 Year Old - 2010s

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming

Cons

  • More expensive (£150 vs £90.36)
  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 5.0)
  • Dry and austere — not for those who prefer sweeter drams

Michael Jackson Blend

Pros

  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (5.0/5)
  • +More affordable (£90.36 vs £150)

Cons

  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Bowmore?

Bowmore 17 Year Old - 2010s suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Islay character.

Who should buy Michael?

Michael Jackson Blend is an ideal first whisky — sweet, approachable, and widely available. It's a great gift and a safe choice for anyone new to whisky or who prefers lighter, friendlier drams.

Tasting notes

Both taste of

Oily

Only Bowmore 17 Year Old - 2010s

SmokeyMedicinalLeathery

Only Michael Jackson Blend

VanillaHoneyToastedMalt Extract

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